Population

Background

Cornwall's population estimate in 2015 was 549,400.

The population of Cornwall is not only gradually increasing but also changing demographically.

In line with national trends, Cornwall's population is getting older as average life expectancy continues to rise. This has been bolstered by the cumulative effect of working age net migration over the last 30 years.

Historically Cornwall has experienced high levels of outward migration of those between the ages of 16-29. However, the expansion in the higher education infrastructure and better employment prospects has led to reductions of younger people leaving Cornwall. These trends are neither fixed or guaranteed and are fragile.

Latest Population Estimates and Projections

Background

The population of Cornwall is not only gradually increasing but also changing demographically.

In line with national trends, Cornwall's population is getting older as average life expectancy continues to rise. This has been bolstered by the cumulative effect of working age net migration over the last 30 years.

Historically Cornwall has experienced high levels of outward migration of those between the ages of 16-29. However, the expansion in the higher education infrastructure and better employment prospects has led to reductions of younger people leaving Cornwall. These trends are neither fixed or guaranteed and are fragile.